US20080274651A1 - Electrical connection apparatus - Google Patents
Electrical connection apparatus Download PDFInfo
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- US20080274651A1 US20080274651A1 US12/061,246 US6124608A US2008274651A1 US 20080274651 A1 US20080274651 A1 US 20080274651A1 US 6124608 A US6124608 A US 6124608A US 2008274651 A1 US2008274651 A1 US 2008274651A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- block
- pin
- contact
- stackable
- electrical connection
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
- H01R13/02—Contact members
- H01R13/193—Means for increasing contact pressure at the end of engagement of coupling part, e.g. zero insertion force or no friction
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
- H01R13/46—Bases; Cases
- H01R13/514—Bases; Cases composed as a modular blocks or assembly, i.e. composed of co-operating parts provided with contact members or holding contact members between them
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R24/00—Two-part coupling devices, or either of their cooperating parts, characterised by their overall structure
- H01R24/58—Contacts spaced along longitudinal axis of engagement
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61N—ELECTROTHERAPY; MAGNETOTHERAPY; RADIATION THERAPY; ULTRASOUND THERAPY
- A61N1/00—Electrotherapy; Circuits therefor
- A61N1/18—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes
- A61N1/32—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents
- A61N1/36—Applying electric currents by contact electrodes alternating or intermittent currents for stimulation
- A61N1/372—Arrangements in connection with the implantation of stimulators
- A61N1/375—Constructional arrangements, e.g. casings
- A61N1/3752—Details of casing-lead connections
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R2107/00—Four or more poles
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R2201/00—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications
- H01R2201/12—Connectors or connections adapted for particular applications for medicine and surgery
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- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
- Y10S—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y10S439/00—Electrical connectors
- Y10S439/909—Medical use or attached to human body
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- Electrotherapy Devices (AREA)
- Connector Housings Or Holding Contact Members (AREA)
- Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This application claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Ser. No. 60/915,765, entitled “Electrical Connection Apparatus”, filed May 3, 2007 (attorney docket number 189137/US), the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
- The present invention relates to an electrical connection apparatus, and in particular, relates to an electrical connection apparatus for use with implantable medical devices and components associated with implantable medical devices.
- Active implantable medical devices often are associated with implantable leads that electrically couple to the implantable device to a power supply or signal generator. One problem in implementing medical leads in an implantable medical device is establishing and maintaining a stable, low noise electrical connection between the components. An electrical connection apparatus may facilitate the electrical coupling required for the implantable device to work in concert with the implantable leads. In addition to providing the electrical connection between devices, electrical connection apparatuses may include sealing components that provide isolation between electrical contact structures. However, some apparatuses for providing an electrical connection may not physically lock the connection in place or may not secure the lead position to an extent desired. For example, some leads may be loosely fitted on or in an electrical connection apparatus, and as a result, forces exerted on the lead such as pulling or twisting forces associated with muscle movement, etc. may cause the lead to loosen, create increased signal noise or completely disconnect from the electrical connection apparatus. Accordingly, there is a need to provide an electrical connection apparatus that securely couples to implantable leads.
- An electrical connection apparatus according to one implementation includes at least one stackable block operably coupleable to another stackable block, at least one pin receiving portion defined by an inner wall within the stackable block, and at least one electrical connection component having a C-shaped contact portion with elastic properties disposed within the pin receiving portion and a lead portion disposed at a location exterior to the stackable block, where the C-shaped contact portion and the lead portion integrally form the electrical connection component.
- Yet another implementation of an electrical connection apparatus includes at least one stackable block operably coupleable to another stackable block, at least one means for receiving an insertable pin that is defined by the at least one stackable block, and at least one means for providing an electrical connection between an insertable pin and an external device, where the means for providing an electrical connection is disposed in the at least one stackable block.
- A method of electrically connecting an implanted medical device and an implanted stimulation electrode according to certain implementations includes providing a connection device having at least one stackable block and a first end block and a second end block arranged on a first and a second end of the at least one stackable block, where each of the stackable blocks includes at least one pin receiving portion defined by the stackable block; and at least one electrical connection contact, where the electrical contact includes a C-shaped contact portion disposed within the at least one pin receiving portion, the C-shaped contact portion having elastic properties; and a lead portion disposed at a location exterior to the stackable block; inserting a pin into the at least one pin receiving portion, wherein the pin is electrically coupled to one of the implanted medical device or the implanted stimulation electrode, and electrically coupling to the lead portion the other of the implanted medical device or the implanted stimulation electrode.
- While multiple embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein, still other embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the invention. As will be realized, by those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the following disclosure, the invention is capable of modifications in various aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
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FIG. 1 is cutaway view of one embodiment of an electrical connection apparatus. -
FIGS. 2A-B depict a first side and a second side of a connector block. -
FIGS. 3A-B depict electrical connection contacts according to certain implementations. -
FIGS. 4A-B depict a first and second side of a connector block with four electrical connection contacts according to certain implementations. -
FIGS. 5A-5F depict additional embodiments of electrical connection contacts. -
FIG. 6 depicts a seal component according to certain implementations. -
FIG. 7 depicts a seal component according to another implementation. -
FIGS. 8A-8D depict additional embodiments of seal components. -
FIG. 9 depicts an alternative embodiment of an electrical connection apparatus having stackable connector blocks. -
FIG. 10 depicts an electrical connection apparatus according to another implementation. -
FIGS. 11A-C depict a block of the apparatus depicted inFIG. 10 . -
FIGS. 12A-B depict a first and second sides of a cam component. -
FIG. 13 depicts a cross-sectional view of the an electrical connection apparatus according to an alternative configuration. -
FIGS. 14A-B depict a first and second perspective view of another electrical connection apparatus according to certain implementations. -
FIGS. 15A-F depict perspective views of a first and second side of a first end block, a stackable block and a second end block of the apparatus ofFIGS. 14A-B . -
FIGS. 16A-B depict perspective views of a first and second side of a stackable block with a segmented contacting pin in place. -
FIGS. 17A-B depict perspective views of the slider and contact in both the insertion and contact position relative to the pin. -
FIGS. 18A-B depict perspective views of a first and second side of a cam according to certain implementations. -
FIGS. 19A-B depict perspective views of electrical connection contacts for use on a left and a right side of the stackable block. -
FIGS. 20A-B depict perspective views of a first and second side of a slider for use with the stackable block. -
FIGS. 21A-B depict perspective views of a first and second side of the stackable block with a seal plate. -
FIGS. 22A-B depict perspective views of a first and second side of the seal plate depicted inFIGS. 21A-B . -
FIGS. 23A-B depict perspective views of a first and second perspective view of another electrical connection apparatus having a two pin configuration. -
FIG. 24 is a flowchart of a method for electrically connecting an implanted medical device and an implanted stimulation electrode according to the present invention. - The present invention, according to one embodiment, is an electrical connection apparatus.
- In one aspect, an electrical connection apparatus may be used in conjunction with implantable medical devices such as neurostimulators or pacemakers. For example, such an apparatus may be used to provide an electrical connection between the implanted device and an implanted stimulation electrode. In one embodiment, the implanted device is a pacemaker. Alternatively, the implanted device may be an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (“ICD”), an implantable pulse generator, or any other implanted device requiring an electrical connection.
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FIG. 1 is a cutaway view of one embodiment of anelectrical connection apparatus 10. The apparatus is comprised ofstackable blocks 12 connected in a stacked fashion, with end blocks 14, 16 disposed at each end. Eachblock pin receiving portions 18 configured to receive a pin such aspin 20 depicted inFIG. 1 . In addition, aseal component 22 is disposed between eachblock block 12, in this implementation, also haselectrical connection contacts 24 having exterior contact points 26 (also referred to herein as “leads”) disposed on an exterior portion of thedevice 10 and C-shapedinterior contact portions 28 disposed within thepin receiving portions 18. - Generally, the
connection apparatus 10 depicted inFIG. 1 connects two devices or components in the following fashion. Thepin 20, which is electrically coupled to one device via thelead wires 30, is positioned in one of thepin receiving portions 18 and thereby contacts one or more of theinterior contact portions 28 of theelectrical connection contacts 24. The other device is positioned or configured such that it is in electrical contact with one more of theexterior contact portions 26 of theelectrical connection contacts 24. Thus, the two devices are electrically coupled to each other via theelectrical connections contacts 24 disposed within eachblock 12 of theapparatus 10. - In the embodiment depicted in
FIG. 1 , theapparatus 10 has eight connector blocks 12. However, it is understood that theapparatus 10 may be comprised of oneblock 12, twoblocks 12, or any number ofblocks 12 in order to provide aconnection device 10 with the desired size and configuration. End blocks 14, 16 may be used as the end termination for each end of theelectrical apparatus 10.End block 14 is also referred to herein as an “insertion end block,” whileend block 16 is also referred to herein as an “end cap block.” Theblocks blocks - According to the implementation depicted in
FIG. 1 , theinsertion end block 14 definesmechanical fastening ports 32 for each of thepins 20. Eachport 32 may be configured to be in communication with one of thepin receiving portions 18 such that eachport 32 may receive a fastening component (not shown) that may be used to fasten or otherwise secure thepin 20 into its position in thatpin receiving portion 18. In one embodiment, the fastening component is a threaded set screw made from biocompatible material and eachport 32 is a threaded hole configured to receive such a set screw. Alternatively, any known fastening component may be incorporated into theinsertion end block 14. In one implementation, a cap or other type of cover may be provided and positioned over thefastening port 32, thereby presenting a relatively smooth external profile for thedevice 10. In a further alternative, theinsertion end block 14 has no fastening ports or fastening components, and thepin 20 is at least partially secured within the pin receiving portions via frictional forces created by contact with the C-shapedcontact portions 28. - In use, and in accordance with one aspect, after the
pin 20 is positioned in thepin receiving portion 18, the set screw is threaded into theport 32 such that the set screw contacts thepin 20 at an electrically isolated portion ofpin 20, and securespin 20 in thepin receiving portions 18. It acts to supplement the frictional forces exerted by the C-shapedcontact portions 28 and helps prevent outward migration of the pin from the housing caused by vibration or excessive tensile or torsional forces on thepin 20 orlead wires 30 during use. - In one implementation as shown in
FIG. 1 ,pin 20 has electrically-isolatedcircumferential contacts 34 distributed along its length. When thepin 20 is positioned in apin receiving portion 18, each of thecircumferential contacts 34 are positioned to correspond with and contact a C-shapedcontact portion 28. Eachcircumferential contact 34 is electrically connected to one of thelead wires 30, each of which is embedded in thepin 20. Each individual wire or lead 30 may be potted within thepin 20 and may be electrically isolated and insulated from other leads. Thepin 20 may contain one or more separate isolatedlead wires 30 for eachcontact 34. Eachwire 30 may be capable of maintaining signal integrity from thecircumferential contact area 34 through thewire 30 and to a desired location within the body, such as a target tissue, nerve, or some other target area. In one embodiment, awire 30 terminates with a specialized electrode (not shown) to improve signal delivery to the desired location. - The configuration of a
connector block 12 withelectrical connection contacts 24, according to one embodiment, is shown inFIGS. 2A , 2B, 3, 4A, and 4B.FIGS. 2A and 2B depict both sides of aconnector block 12 without electrical connection contacts, withFIG. 2A depicting a first side andFIG. 2B depicting a second side. Theblock 12 has ahousing 40 that defines thepin receiving portions 18 and further defines slots orpassages 42 in which portions of the electrical connection contacts may be disposed. -
FIG. 3 depicts anelectrical connection contact 24, in accordance with one implementation. Theelectrical connection contact 24 in this embodiment has a C-shapedcontact portion 28 and anexternal lead portion 26. Thecontact portion 28 andlead portion 26 are connected via thelink portion 44. In one embodiment as shown inFIG. 3 , the C-shapedcontact portion 28 defines slots or gaps. Alternatively, thecontact portion 28 is a continuous, solid component with no slots or gaps. -
FIGS. 4A and 4B depict a first and second ofconnector block 12 with fourelectrical connection contacts 24, according to certain embodiments. Eachelectrical connection contact 24 may be positioned such that the C-shapedinterior contact portion 28 is disposed within apin receiving portion 18, theexterior contact portion 26 may be disposed on an exterior portion of thehousing 40, and thelink portion 44 may be disposed in one of theslots 42 as discussed above with respect toFIGS. 2A and 2B . - Each of the
contact portions 28, according to one embodiment, is configured to contact any pin positioned in thepin receiving portion 18. In one embodiment, eachcontact portion 28 contacts a correspondingpin contact area 34 on thepin 20. Such contact results in an electrical connection between the lead 30 and the exterior contact points 26, via the electrical path from thelead 30 to thepin contact area 34 to thecontact portion 28 to thelink portion 44 to theexterior contact portion 26. - In accordance with one implementation, each C-shaped
contact portion 28 is configured to have elastic properties and to have an unconstrained diameter (also referred to as its “unconstrained position,” “natural position,” “starting position,” or “original position”) that is smaller than the outside diameter (“OD”) of thepin 20. “Elastic properties” as used herein means capable of recovering shape after deformation. Thus, when apin 20 is positioned in thepin receiving portion 18, thecontact portion 28 is deformed from its unconstrained diameter to a larger diameter that accommodates thepin 20. The elasticity of thecontact portion 28 urges it back toward its unconstrained diameter such that thecontact portion 28 is forced into contact with thepin 20 and results in a normal force being exerted across the contact interface. According to one embodiment, thecontact portion 28 is forced into contact with acircumferential contact portion 34 on thepin 20. When thepin 20 is removed, the elastic properties of thecontact portion 28 cause thecontact portion 28 to return to its unconstrained diameter. - In another embodiment, the C-shaped
contact portion 28 also has a maximum diameter that is limited by the diameter of thepin receiving portion 18. That is, thecontact portion 28 may only expand to its maximum diameter, at which diameter thecontact portion 28 is in contact with the walls of thepin receiving portion 18 and cannot expand further. -
FIGS. 5A-5F depict additional embodiments of electrical connection contacts. - According to one embodiment, the electrical connection contacts are made out of a precious metal. For example, the contacts may be constructed of a platinum or PGM (Platinum Group Metal) alloy such as, but not limited to, Pt-10% Ir, Pt-20%Ir, Pt-8%W,
Paliney® 500, Paliney® 1100, or Paliney® 1200. Alternatively, the contacts may be formed out of a base metal such as a copper alloy or stainless steel that is overplated with an appropriate electrically and environmentally stable contact material such as Au, Pt, Pd, Pd—Ni, etc. It is also envisioned that the overplate might cover theentire connection 24 or just theterminal contacts contact portion 28 and thepin 20, thereby allowing for greater design flexibility in selecting the spring characteristics of thecontact member 28. Alternatively, the electrical connection contacts may be made out of a non-PGM metal such as stainless steel, niobium, tantalum, MP35N, or other such non-PGM metals. Certain of these non-PGM metals may require higher contact forces to maintain a stable interface, which may be accomplished by selecting a material with a higher elastic modulus and/or a higher yield stress or by increasing the thickness of the spring member. - The
seal component 22, as depicted inFIG. 1 according to one embodiment, is configured to be disposed between any two blocks (including the end blocks) and operates to create two seals. The first seal is a seal between thepin 20 and the rest of theblock 12. The second seal is a seal between twoconnected blocks 12 and associatedpin contact areas 34. -
FIGS. 6 and 7 depict aseal component 22, according to another embodiment. In the embodiment depicted inFIG. 6 , aseal plate 50 having fourseal components 22 is positioned on one side of aconnector block 12. Eachseal component 22 disposed in theplate 50 has a “vertical”seal 52 and a “horizontal”seal 54 that completely encircle thepin 20 receivingportion 18 of theblock 12. The terms “vertical” and “horizontal” are used solely to describe the seals with respect to each other and the connector blocks and are not intended to be limiting. It is understood that thevertical seal 52 could also be positioned horizontally and that thehorizontal seal 54 could also be positioned vertically, depending on the disposition of the entire block. The combination ofseals - As best shown in
FIG. 7 , thevertical seal 52 ofseal component 22 arranged inseal plate 50 provides a seal between thepin receiving portion 18 and the areas exterior to thepin receiving portion 18. In one embodiment, oneend 56 of thevertical seal 52 contacts theblock 12 next to which theplate 50 has been positioned and theother end 58 of theseal 52 contacts theadjacent block 14. According to one embodiment, thevertical seal 52 may form a seal that prevents body fluids from entering into thepin receiving portion 18, which may cause a short. In accordance with one implementation, thehorizontal seal 54 ofseal component 22 contacts any pin positioned in thepin receiving portion 18 and thereby provides a seal in thepin receiving portion 18 betweenblocks seal plates 50 inFIG. 7 , and in view of the discussion above, it should be understood thatseal plate 50 may also be provided between adjacentstackable blocks 12 and betweenblocks -
FIGS. 8A-8D depict additional embodiments of seal components. As shown inFIG. 8C , certain seal plates define acentral opening 60. In certain embodiments, thiscentral opening 60 may define a portion of a bolt shaft configured to receive a rotating cam or an assembly bolt, both of which are described below. Alternatively, certain seal plate embodiments such as that depicted inFIG. 8D have no central opening. - In one embodiment, a seal component is made out of biocompatible, compliant thermoset or thermoplastic polymer, such as, but not limited to, a silicone rubber. Alternatively, the seal component may be made of any known compliant biocompatible material that may be used for providing a seal in a medical device.
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FIG. 9 depicts an alternative embodiment of aconnector apparatus 80 having stackable connector blocks 82. In this embodiment, eachblock 82 has a D-shaped configuration and defines ninepin receiving portions 84. Alternatively, theblock 82 may define any number of pin receiving portions that will fit on theblock 82 and operate to provide an electrical connection. It is understood that theblocks 82 andpin receiving portions 84 may also have any other configuration. That is, theblocks 82 might be formed in another shape and/or thepin receiving portions 84 might be arranged in any other configuration on theblocks 82. It is also understood that any of these alternative embodiments could incorporate any of the various components described herein. - In a further alternative, the stackable blocks are secured in another fashion. That is, according to one embodiment, in the absence of the cam assembly, the blocks may be secured via a bolt that is disposed through a central hole in each of the stackable blocks 12 and the
insertion end block 14. One example of such acentral hole 60 is depicted inFIG. 8C . According to one embodiment, the bolt may be secured to theend block 16 via a mating feature. For example, the bolt may have a threaded end that mates with a threaded hole in theend block 16. Alternatively, any known components for securing such a bolt to an end block may be used. The bolt may be fabricated from a high strength biocompatible material such as stainless steel, a titanium alloy, a Co—Cr alloy such as MP35N, an Inconel alloy, or any other known high strength biocompatible material. In one implementation, the proximal portion of the bolt has a drive mechanism to allow for proper tightening on the assembly and may also have an over cap to minimize potential exposed surface crevices after assembly. In one embodiment, the bolt is the only feature for securing the blocks together. Alternatively, the bolt may be used in conjunction with theexternal clip 110. -
FIG. 10 depicts anelectrical connection apparatus 100, according to another embodiment. Thisapparatus 100 provides for easy insertion and removal of contact pins. Theapparatus 100 has fourpin receiving portions 104 defined within theblocks 102 of theapparatus 100. As discussed above with the embodiment depicted inFIG. 1 , thepin receiving portions 104 are disposed through almost the entire length of thedevice 100. A pin (not shown) may be inserted into each of thepin receiving portions 104 and once activated, will be placed in contact with each of the C-shaped contact points 108 (seeFIG. 11A ) as described below. As in the previous embodiment depicted inFIG. 1 , each pin has internal wires or leads that are electrically connected to the circumferential contact areas of the pin, similar toareas 34 as shown in shown inFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 10 also depicts one embodiment for securing the stackable blocks 102. That is, theblocks 102 are secured with anexternal clip 110 that connects theend cap block 16 to theinsertion end block 14. In one implementation, theclip 110 is a single U-shaped spring that has two ends. The first end is secured at afirst attachment point 109 on the end block and the second end is secured at asecond attachment point 111. The length of theU-shaped clip 110 runs along the outside of thedevice 100 and wraps around the other end block along a channel defined in the other end block, thereby securing the stackable blocks 102 together. Alternatively, theexternal clip 110 may be two C-shaped clips, each having a hook-like feature at each end of the clip. In this embodiment, there are two attachment points in each end block (instead of just one end block as shown inFIG. 10 ) such that one C-shapedclip 110 is disposed on one exterior side of theconnector 100 and the other C-shaped clip is disposed on the opposite side and both are attached to the end blocks with the hook feature. -
FIG. 11A depicts ablock 102 of the apparatus depicted inFIG. 10 . Like the blocks depicted inFIGS. 4A and 4B , block 102 has C-shapedcontact portions 108 disposed withinpin receiving portions 104. However, the C-shapedcontact portions 108 in this embodiment differ from the C-shapedcontact portions 28 described above with respect toFIGS. 3 , 4A, and 4B. More specifically, the C-shapedcontact portions 108 do not have an unconstrained diameter that is smaller than the OD of the pin. To the contrary, the natural configuration of the C-shapedcontact portions 108 in this embodiment have a diameter that is greater than the OD of the pin. - In addition, the
block 102 has acam component 112 disposed in a central portion of theblock 102 such that thecam component 112 is in contact with each of thepin receiving portions 104. Thecam component 112, which is depicted in further detail according to one embodiment inFIGS. 12A and 12B (which depict both sides of a cam component 112), has fourindentations 114 and fourcontact portions 116 around the circumference of thecomponent 112. In addition, thecomponent 112 has adrive receiving component 118 on one side as shown inFIG. 12B and drivecomponent 120 on the other side as shown inFIG. 12A . According to one embodiment, thedrive receiving component 118 is aninset hexagon 118 and thedrive component 120 is a coupleablehexagon drive component 120. - Each
block 102 in this embodiment has asimilar cam component 112 such that when theblocks 102 are connected to each other, thedrive components 120 of eachcam component 112 are inserted into the adjacentdrive receiving component 118 on theadjacent block 102, thereby resulting in each of thecam components 112 in each of theblocks 102 being connected. In this embodiment, the connectedcam components 112 may be turned using atool 122 depicted inFIG. 13 , e.g., a wrench such as a torque wrench. - According to the
electrical connection apparatus 100 depicted inFIG. 13 , thetool 122 is inserted through acentral hole 124 defined in theend block 14 and positioned into thedrive receiving component 118 of thecam component 112 of theblock 102 connected to theend block 14, whereby thetool 122 may be used to turn the connectedcam components 112. - In one embodiment, the
tool 122 has on its distal end 126 (the end that contacts the drive receiving component 118) certain features that may improve torque transmission. According to one embodiment, the feature may be a shaped end (such as a hexagonal shape, for instance) that is mateable with thedrive receiving feature 118 of thecam 112. Additionally, in one implementation, theproximal end 127 of thetool 122 may have screw drive features (such as slots, hex, torx, etc.), external knurling, increased circumference flange, or any other known features for improving torque transmission. In one implementation, theproximal end 127 oftool 122 is configured as a hex driver. - As best depicted in both
FIGS. 11A-C , it is understood that the configuration ofblocks 102 is slightly different from the blocks depicted inFIGS. 4A and 4B . That is, the slots inblocks 102 have a different configuration to accommodate the slightly different configuration of the electrical connection contacts. According to one embodiment, this configuration allows for a central hole defined in each of the assembly blocks 102. - In use, the
cam component 112 provides for the easy insertion and removal of the pins. That is, when thecam component 112 is rotatably disposed such that the fourindentations 114 are adjacent to the pin receiving portions 104 (the “insertion position”), each C-shapedcontact portion 108 is disposed at its largest diameter, which is greater than the OD of a pin. Thus, when thecam component 112 is in the insertion position, a pin may easily be inserted into or removed from apin receiving portion 104 while experiencing little or no frictional contact with the C-shapedcontact portion 108. Thus, the pin may be inserted or removed with little or no force. - In contrast, when the
cam component 112 is rotatably disposed such that the fourcontact portions 116 are adjacent to thepin receiving portions 104 and in contact with the C-shaped contact portions 108 (the “contact position”), each C-shapedcontact portion 108 is urged into contact with the pin by the force of thecontact portion 116 of thecam component 112, thereby resulting in electrical contact between the C-shapedcontact portion 108 and the pin. An example of the contact position is depicted inFIG. 11A . In one embodiment, the C-shapedcontact portion 108 is in electrical contact with the circumferential contact area of the pin similar to thecontact area 34 depicted inFIG. 1 . - Thus, the
tool 122 may be used to turn the connectedcam components 112, thereby moving the C-shapedcontacts 108 between the insertion position and the contact position. That is, thetool 122 may be used to turn thecam components 112 such that thecontact portions 116 are positioned in contact with the C-shapedcontacts 108, thereby urging them into contact with the pins. In addition to establishing a stable electrical contact interface between the C-shapedcontacts 108 and the pin, the pressure of the C-shapedcontacts 108 against the pin acts to prevent movement of the pin or otherwise secure the pin in its position within thepin receiving portion 104. - Further, the
tool 122 may be used to turn thecam component 112 such that the fourindentations 114 are in contact with the four C-shapedcontacts 108, thereby allowing each C-shapedcontact 108 to expand and to return to the insertion/withdrawal position. - In certain embodiments, after the
cams 112 are set to the appropriate position, thetool 122 may be removed and replaced with a lower profile cap. Alternatively, no cap is provided. - According to one implementation, the combined force of the C-shaped
contacts 108 in contact with the pin creates a sufficiently large mechanical force on the pin such that the pin is not easily dislodged or otherwise disconnected via physical movement of thedevice 100 or pin. As such, thedevice 100 may withstand outside physical forces, including shaking, twisting, and/or other such forces, without disrupting the connection between the pins and thecontact portions 108 as a result of the stable configuration of thecontact adjustment component 112 andcontact portions 108. As an example, this stability may, in some embodiments, allow a patient requiring such adevice 100 to be more physically active than is possible with known devices. In another embodiment, theapparatus 100 may also have a mechanical fastening port (not shown) similar to that described above with respect toFIG. 1 , thereby providing further stability. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 13 , an apparatus may provide a tactile response to rotation of thecam component 112 such that a user may properly position thecam component 112. In one embodiment, the tactile response is provided by mated detent features disposed on thedrive component 120 of thecam component 112 as shown inFIG. 12A and on the portion of thatend block 16 that contacts thecam component 112 as shown inFIG. 13 . More specifically, thedrive component 120 has female detent features 130 shaped as hemispheres formed into the end of thecomponent 120. Further, theend block 16 has male detent features 132 shaped as hemispheres that may mate with the female detent features 130. In use, as thecam component 112 is turned, the user may feel the mating and unmating of the detent features and thereby may easily determine the position of thecam component 112. According to one embodiment, the detent features 130, 132 are positioned such that the features mate when thecam component 112 is positioned in the contact position, such that the tactile response of the detent features 130, 132 mating indicates to the user that thecam component 112 is in the contact position. - In an alternative embodiment, a tactile response is achieved through a set of small indentations (not shown) disposed on the
contact portions 116 of thecam component 112. These indentations are much smaller and shallower than theindentations 114 and are placed at the optimal contact points 116 on thecam component 112. These indentations provide a tactile response to the user, indicating that thecam component 112 is in the contact position. - In a further embodiment, a visual method of positioning the
cam component 112 is provided. In this embodiment, alignment markers are placed on theend block 14 and the top of thecam tool 122. -
FIGS. 14A-B depict a first and second perspective view of anotherelectrical connection apparatus 210, according to certain implementations. Theelectrical connection apparatus 210 includesstackable blocks 220 arranged between end blocks 240, 260. The assembly ofblocks external spring clip 280 or by a U-shaped clip (not shown) with the terminal ends of the U-shaped clip terminating atend block 240.Electrical connection apparatus 210 may connect two implantable components, e.g., leads and a medical device, in the manner discussed above in relation to theelectrical connection apparatus 10 ofFIG. 1 . However, according to the presently described implementation, theelectrical connection apparatus 210 is configured so that cam action is initiated from one end, e.g., the end corresponding to end block 240, and pins enter from another end ofapparatus 210, e.g., the end corresponding to endblock 260. This embodiment may provide certain advantages because, due to the small allowable space for active implantable devices and the small sizing of the electrical connectors, placing leads at one end of the device and rotating the cam at the opposite end may reduce the chance of entanglement between the leads and the rotating mechanism, hands, tool, torque wrench, etc., during manual rotation or operation of the cam. -
FIGS. 15A-F depict perspective views of a first and second side of afirst end block 240, astackable block 220 and asecond end block 260 ofapparatus 210 shown inFIGS. 14A-B . - In
FIGS. 15A-B ,end block 240 is configured withgrooves 241 on opposite sides of the block for accommodatingexternal clip 280, anopening 242, which provides access to a cam or other adjustment component (not shown) situated in an adjacentstackable block 220, and receivers 243 for receiving retainingclips 222 arranged on stackable block 220 (shown inFIG. 15C ).End block 240 serves as an access point for accessing a cam or other adjustment component arranged on the interior of the assembledapparatus 210 and may have a configuration similar toinsertion end block 14 ofFIG. 1 , except thatend block 240 does not include the pin receiving portions described in relation toFIG. 1 . -
FIGS. 15C-D depict perspective views of a first and second side of astackable block 220. InFIGS. 15C-D , block 220 includesgrooves 221, retainingclip 222,receivers 222′ for retainingclips 222, knife edges 223,slots 224, potting pockets 225,cam receiving portion 226,cam detents 227, cam hard stops 228 and pin receivingportions 229.Grooves 221 on opposite sides of the block accommodatespring clip 280 and may facilitate maintaining the desired positioning ofspring clip 280 on the assembledapparatus 210. Retainingclips 222 arranged near the periphery of an interior facing portion ofblock 220 may facilitate holdingseals 250 in place (SeeFIG. 21A ) and may aid in assembly of adjacent blocks, e.g., adjacent end blocks 240, 260 or other stackable blocks 220. For example, during assembly, retainingclips 222 may engage withreceivers 222′ arranged near the periphery of an interior facing portion of anotherblock 220 or from receivers 243 arranged near the periphery of an interior facing portion of anadjacent end block 240. Knife edges 223 provided onstackable blocks 220 may facilitate providing a seal betweenseal plate 250 and stackable blocks 220. - Each stackable block includes four
slots 224 for providing an electrical connection contact (not shown) access to the exterior of theblock 220. Four pottingpockets 225 are arranged in an area proximate theslot 224 and may accommodate an epoxy or other polymeric resin, which may sealslots 224 and prevent moisture ingress to the interior ofapparatus 210.Cam receiving portion 226 is defined by interior walls ofstackable block 220 and is configured to receive a cam (not shown) or other adjustment component and includes cam hard stops 228 that cooperate with thecam 330 and serve as stop points for the cam rotating from a locking or contact to an unlocking or insertion position.Cam detents 227 are arranged adjacent the cam hard stops 228 and serve as an indicator to a user rotating the cam that the cam has reached a locking or contact position or an unlocking or insertion position. Fourpin receiving portions 229 are each configured to accept a pin (not shown) and are defined by interior walls ofstackable block 220. -
FIGS. 15E-F depict perspective views of a first and second side of asecond end block 260, which may be configured similar to endcap block 16 described in relation toFIG. 1 , except thatend block 260 may include pin receiving portions and/or fastening ports similar to those provided ininsertion end block 14.End block 260 also includes agroove 261 for accommodatingexternal spring clip 280 or a U-shaped spring that would traverse exterior of the second end block along the length of the groove. -
FIGS. 16A-B depict perspective views of a first and second side of thestackable block 220 with apin 300 inserted through the block.FIG. 16A depicts a drive component ofcam 330 in an insertion position.FIG. 16B depicts the assembly from the back side and thecam 330 with the drive receiving component is set in the open or initial insertion position. -
FIG. 17A depicts one of the contact assemblies in the unlocked position. Thecam 330 is loosely coupled to aslider 350, which is mechanically engaged to anelectrical connection contact 340 via a tab 342 (seeFIG. 19A ). In the unlocked position,slider 350 is in a lowered position relative to the periphery ofstackable block 220 and loosely engaged withelectrical connection contact 340.Electrical connection contact 340 is in a relaxed state, and as a result, pin 300 arranged inblock 220 may be slidable through the C-shapedconnection 346 in thecontact 340. Thus, inFIG. 17A , thecam 330,slider 350 andtab 342 are in an insertion position, and a pin may be inserted into or removed from apin receiving portion 229 while experiencing little or no frictional contact with the C-shapedcontact portion 346, resulting in the pin being insertable or removable with little or with zero insertion force. - In
FIG. 17B , a first side of the contact assembly is shown in its locked position.Cam 330 has raised the position ofslider 350 and C-shapedcontact portion 346 is clinched aroundpin 300 at an electrically-isolatedcircumferential contact 304. As a result, whencam 330 is in a locked position, pin 300 is locked into position about itscircumferential contact 304 by the reduction of the circumference of the C-shaped portion of electrical C-shapedcontact 346. This action completes the electrical path from theexternal contacts 344 through the C-shapedcontact 346 to theisolated pin contact 304 to the internal pin lead 30 (seeFIG. 1 ). When fourpins 300 are provided inapparatus 210, eachslider 350 is responsible for raising the position of twotabs 342, 362 (seeFIGS. 19A and B), which in turns clinches two of the fourpins 300. Providingsliders 350 that engage withtabs contacts 346 to tighten around and couple topins 300 in response to cam action, according to the present implementation, may reduce or prevent buckling of the C-shapedportion electrical connection contacts - According to
FIG. 17B , in addition to establishing a stable electrical contact interface between the C-shapedcontacts 346 and thepin 300, the pressure of the C-shapedcontacts 346 againstpin 300, due to the positioning ofslider 350 in a contact position, may prevent movement of the pin or secure the pin in its position within thepin receiving portion 229. The force of the C-shapedcontact 346 in contact with the pin may provide a sufficiently large mechanical force on the pin such that the pin may not be dislodged or dislodged easily, or otherwise disconnected via physical movement of thedevice 210 orpin 300. Thus, thedevice 210 may withstand outside physical forces, including shaking, twisting, and/or other such forces, without disrupting the connection between the pins and thecontact portions 346 as a result of the stable configuration of thecam 330,slider 350 andtab 342. -
FIGS. 18A-B depict perspective views of a first and second side ofcam 330.Cam 330 includes adrive component 331,eccentric paths 332 forsliders 350, detent feature 333 and adrive receiving component 334. InFIG. 18A , thedrive component 331 having a tapered hexagonal male portion is configured such that it fits into an adjacent cam by way of a complementarydrive receiving component 334 having a tapered hexagonal female receiving configuration. Whencam 330 is arranged inblock 220, thedrive component 331 protrudes beyond the an exterior surface ofblock 220, see e.g.,FIGS. 16A and 17A .Eccentric paths 332 forslider 350 may be configured so that whencam 330 is arranged inblock 220,eccentric paths 332 loosely couple to thesliders 350 when in an insertion or unlocked position, and movessliders 350 up or down when in a contact or locked position.Detent feature 333 engages withcam detents 227 ofblock 220 whencam 330 is moved to either a locked or an unlocked position. When detent feature 333 reaches one of thecam detents 227, a user exerting torque, e.g., by way of a tool such as a wrench or a torque wrench, on the cam assembly may feel detent feature 333 engage with the cam detent. Where a user continues to exert torque on the cam assembly after thedetent feature 333 engages with cam detent, detent feature 333 may abut an adjacent cam of the pair of cam hard stops 228 provided onblock 220 preventing cams from further rotational movement. In use,cams 330 fromadjacent blocks 220 interlock via the drive and drive receivingcomponents cam 330 arranged in astackable block 220 adjacent to end block 240 results in actuation of each of thecams 330 arranged in theelectrical connection apparatus 210. Furthermore, becausedetents 227 andhard stops 228 instackable block 220 cooperate withcam 330, initiating cam action with a torque wrench may provide for precise engagement and rotation ofcams 330 withinelectrical connection apparatus 110. -
FIGS. 19A-B depict perspective views ofelectrical connection contact stackable block 220.FIGS. 20A-B depict perspective views of a first and second side of aslider 350 for use with thestackable block 220 and includerecesses electrical connection contact sliders 350 may be constructed of plastic, ceramic, other insulating material, or may be coated with an insulating material. - With reference to
FIG. 19A , a left sideelectrical connection contact 340 includestab 342 for engaging withslider recess 351,exterior contact portion 344 for contacting an external device and for aligning along an exterior length of thestackable block 220, and C-shapedinterior contact portion 346 for aligning withpin receiving portion 229 and for contactingpin 300. InFIG. 19B , a right sideelectrical connection contact 360 includestab 362 configured for engaging withslider recess 351,exterior contact portion 364 for contacting an external device, and C-shapedinterior contact portion 366 for aligning withpin receiving portion 229 and contactingpin 300.Tab slider recess 351 with a desirable length of theelectrical connection contact slider 350.Electrical connection contacts FIGS. 3A-B , 5A-G and 11. -
FIGS. 21A-B depict perspective views of a first and second side of thestackable block 220.FIGS. 22A-B depict perspective views of a first and second side of aseal component 250, which may be arranged onstackable block 220 at a position corresponding to the recessed portion R ofseal block 220 depicted inFIG. 21A . Assembled electrical connection apparatus 210 (FIGS. 14A-B ) may be provided with aseal component 250 between each block, e.g. betweenend block 240 andstackable block 220, betweenstackable blocks 220, and betweenstackable block 220 andend block 260 in order to prevent biological fluids from contactingpins 300, for example. In addition,stackable blocks 220 associated with the presently describedapparatus 210 includeclips 222, which may facilitate holdingseal component 250 in place as well as engage withreceivers 222′, as shown inFIG. 21B . Moreover, knife edges 223 provided onstackable block 220 in the areas corresponding to thecam receiving portion 226,pin receiving portions 229, and an area surrounding each of the cam and pin receiving portions. Knife edges 223 may mate with vertical seal portions provided on seal component, which are shown and described in relation toFIG. 7 . -
FIGS. 23A-B depict a first and second perspective view of anotherelectrical connection apparatus 410 having a two pin configuration.Electrical connection apparatus 410 may otherwise be configured in a manner similar to that ofelectrical connection apparatus - In certain implementations, all or a portion of
electrical connection apparatus pin 20 andpin 300 may have a variety of diameters and configurations. For example, pins coupled to leads that deliver electrical pulses may be larger than pins coupled to sensing leads. Accordingly, the pin receiving portions ofapparatus -
FIG. 24 is a flowchart of a method (500) for electrically connecting an implanted medical device and an implanted stimulation electrode according to the present invention. According toFIG. 24 , method (500) includes providing (510) a connection device having at least one stackable block and a first end block and a second end block arranged on a first and a second end of the at least one stackable block, where each of the at least one stackable block includes at least one pin receiving portion, and at least one electrical connection contact. Method (500) also includes inserting (520) a pin into at least one pin receiving portion such that the pin is electrically coupled to an implanted medical device or to an implanted stimulation electrode, and electrically coupling (530) to the lead portion the other of the implanted medical device or the implanted stimulation electrode. - While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the invention. As will be realized, the invention is capable of modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
- Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, persons skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
Claims (25)
Priority Applications (10)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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US12/061,246 US7690953B2 (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2008-04-02 | Stackable electrical connection apparatus |
JP2010507509A JP5116180B2 (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2008-04-18 | Electrical connection device |
CN201210102527.6A CN102709741A (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2008-04-18 | Electrical connection apparatus |
CN200880023300.4A CN101689723B (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2008-04-18 | Electrical connection apparatus |
PCT/US2008/060794 WO2008137286A1 (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2008-04-18 | Electrical connection apparatus |
EP08746248A EP2147484B1 (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2008-04-18 | Electrical connection apparatus |
US12/727,955 US7942686B2 (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2010-03-19 | Electrical barrier and moisture seal for an implanted medical device |
US12/857,236 US8206175B2 (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2010-08-16 | Visual indicator of proper interconnection for an implanted medical device |
HK10109290.6A HK1143003A1 (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2010-09-28 | Electrical connection apparatus |
US13/034,044 US8187015B2 (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2011-02-24 | Electrical connection apparatus |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
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US91576507P | 2007-05-03 | 2007-05-03 | |
US12/061,246 US7690953B2 (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2008-04-02 | Stackable electrical connection apparatus |
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US12/727,955 Continuation-In-Part US7942686B2 (en) | 2007-05-03 | 2010-03-19 | Electrical barrier and moisture seal for an implanted medical device |
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US20080274651A1 true US20080274651A1 (en) | 2008-11-06 |
US7690953B2 US7690953B2 (en) | 2010-04-06 |
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US (1) | US7690953B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2147484B1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP5116180B2 (en) |
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WO (1) | WO2008137286A1 (en) |
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN101689723A (en) | 2010-03-31 |
JP2010530114A (en) | 2010-09-02 |
WO2008137286A1 (en) | 2008-11-13 |
US7690953B2 (en) | 2010-04-06 |
JP5116180B2 (en) | 2013-01-09 |
HK1143003A1 (en) | 2010-12-17 |
EP2147484B1 (en) | 2012-11-28 |
CN102709741A (en) | 2012-10-03 |
CN101689723B (en) | 2012-10-31 |
EP2147484A1 (en) | 2010-01-27 |
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